Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the festival begin and end each day?

The festival takes place the last full weekend in September (Friday, Saturday and Sunday). Booths open at 7 a.m. each day and remain open until around 5 or 6 p.m., depending on weather and the size of the crowds.

When are cranberry marsh tours?

Cranberry marsh tours take place Friday and Saturday of the festival. Ticket sales start at 7 a.m. each day, and tours run every 15 minutes from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. both days. Make sure to get your tickets early! The tours often sell out by noon, and tickets are only sold at the Municipal Building where the tour begins. There are no reservations taken in advance.

Will I be able to see cranberries being harvested?

Due to the volume of guests we have in Warrens for Cranfest- about 100,000 over the three-day weekend- we schedule the event ahead of the cranberry harvest. However, you can see a working cranberry marsh on one of our cranberry marsh tours. You will be able to see harvesting equipment and cranberry beds, and you will have the opportunity to purchase fresh cranberries, honey and wine.

If you would like to experience cranberry harvest, there is a public harvest day in Warrens held at the Wetherby Cranberry Company the first Saturday in October. The 2010 public harvest day will be held Oct. 2, 2010 from 9 a.m. to noon. For more information, visit www.freshcranberries.com.

Do you have handicapped parking?

Handicapped parking is available on the grounds with a valid permit. When you arrive, parking personnel will direct you to the handicapped parking areas.

Do you offer shuttles from the parking lots?

The festival offers free shuttle service from Birkholz Field as well as Jellystone Park and McMullen Campground. The shuttles run all three days from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

If you are coming from Tomah, the Tomah Chamber of Commerce offers a shuttle service from Tomah to Warrens during the festival. For more information about this service, call 1-800-948-6624.

What cranberry products are available for purchase at the festival?

There is a wide variety of cranberry items available at Cranfest, including fresh fruit, juice, sweetened dried cranberries, honey wine and much more. You can also find an assortment of official Cranfest souvenirs, including tees, sweatshirts, buttons and cranberry gifts at the official Warrens Cranberry Festival souvenir booth on Main Street next to the bank.

Which day of Cranfest is busiest?

In the past, Friday and Saturday have been our busiest days. Sunday is a little slower. Our gigantic parade takes place on Sunday at noon, but shopping continues all day on Sunday, even during the parade.

Is there a way I can avoid the crowds when parking?

The best way to avoid the crowds is to come early! The festival opens at 7 a.m. each day, and things are in fulls swing by 9 a.m. Be prepared to wait awhile to park.

Is there transportation around the festival grounds?

There is limited transportation available on the festival grounds due to the large crowds. There are some courtesy golf carts to transport guests and their packages, but be prepared to do a lot of walking. There are currently no scooter or wheelchair rentals on the grounds. There are some seating areas in the food courts, but those are often crowded. You are encouraged to bring a folding chair to use.

What should I bring to the festival?

The festival is completely outdoors, so be sure to check the weather and dress accordingly. Bring an umbrella or a poncho if it looks like rain. If you have trouble standing for long periods of time, bring a folding chair so you can rest. Stop at the information booth on Main Street when you arrive to pick up a map that will help you find your way around the festival.

Can I bring pets to the festival?

Because of the large crowds, we recommend that you leave your pets at home if you can.

Do you have any other advice?

Plan a place to meet ahead of time in case you get separated from your group. The main information booth on Main Street has a public address system, but no personal announcements are made.

Still have questions?